Detroit Lions 2012 Training Camp Preview

Published July 26, 2012

| Sports Network

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REPORT DATES: July 23rd (rookies), July 26th (veterans)

SITE: Detroit Lions Training Facility, Allen Park, MI

CAMP OBJECTIVES: Jim Schwartz will probably be welcoming the return of a
structured environment after the fiery head coach had to endure four of his
players being arrested a total of seven times in the offseason, with projected
starting cornerback Aaron Berry recently being released after running afoul of
the law twice in the past month. His departure sets up a wide-open competition
to earn that spot, with free-agent acquisition Jacob Lacey, returnee Alphonso
Smith and rookie third-round pick Dwight Bentley entering camp as the leading
candidates. Strong safety Amari Spievey will also have a fight on his hands to
keep his starting job following a shaky 2011 season, with Detroit re-signing
veteran Erik Coleman and bringing in experienced pro Sean Jones as possible
alternatives. Shoring up a secondary that was lit up routinely at the end of
last season and creating more balance to a pass-heavy offense will be the
Lions' two main goals of this camp. The team's two best running backs, Jahvid
Best and Mikel Leshoure, missed most or all of last year with a concussion and
Achilles tear, respectively, and both will be closely monitored throughout the
preseason. Rookie wide receiver Ryan Broyles, a second-round selection in
April's draft, also figures to be brought along slowly as he recovers from a
torn ACL sustained in November, but it's hoped that he'll be able to push Nate
Burleson for time in the slot at some point.